The widening of Jalan Residency in Bandar Seri Begawan is expected to be completed this June, the Ministry of Development announced on Thursday.

Upon completion, the new four-lane road — which connects the capital to Mukim Kota Batu, Mentiri and Lumapas via the Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha Bridge — will help ease congestion for the 18,000 motorists who commute through the area daily.

Parking spaces for Kampong Ayer residents will also be provided throughout the entire stretch of Jalan Residency, accommodating up to 517 cars.

“Once this project is complete, it will enhance the beauty of Bandar Seri Begawan and Kampong Ayer,” said Development Minister YB Dato Seri Paduka Hj Suhaimi Hj Gafar yesterday.

Speaking during a session of the Legislative Council (LegCo), the minister said Phase 2 of the Jalan Residency expansion cost $48.5 million and under the 10th National Development Plan (2012-2017).

Phase 1 of the project was completed in March 2013 at a cost of $24.5 million.

First opened in 1925, Jalan Residency spans 1.8 kilometres along the banks of the Brunei River. The road begins from Kg Sungai Lampai and ends at Residency Bridge in Bandar Seri Begawan.

In a previous meeting, the Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism YB Dato Seri Setia Hj Ali Apong, said that the government is studying on the viability of floating restaurants set up along the banks of Jalan Residency to further enliven the capital and Brunei’s iconic Kampong Ayer.